This tree is on fire: a review on the ecology of Erwinia amylovora, the causal agent of fire blight disease

Abstract Fire blight represents a great threat to apple and pear production worldwide. The ability of its causal agent, Erwinia amylovora , spread rapidly in the host plants makes this devastating disease difficult manage. Copper antibiotics are still most effective solutions control fire blight, although their application contribute environmental pollution development E. resistant populations. Thus, there is an urgent need find new alternatives such plant protection products. In review, we summarized what known on biology, as knowledge pathogen biology essential develop eco-friendly management strategies. Notably, presence alone does not necessarily result it final outcome multiple interactions established between cells, flower microbiota, host, insect vectors environment. For instance, specific humidity temperature create suitable conditions for grow reach cell density needed infection. Once develops, insects act potential playing role dispersal disease. important factor susceptibility varies among species belonging Rosaceae family. Recent studies showed microbiota might promote or hinder infection progress, thus representing possible source biocontrol agents controlling .